Tuesday, February 2, 2016

RSVP

Verse of the Day: Matthew 22:14 – “For many are called, but few chosen.”

In this parable of the Wedding Banquet, Jesus makes this statement at the end. He has just spoken of one who was bound “hand and foot, and cast him out into the outer darkness” (Matthew 22:13).

The Greek word, κλητοι, means invited. It is not used in the same sense as Paul uses it (Romans 8:28 – 29). Jesus is specifically speaking of Israel at this point, and He is saying that all of Israel has been invited into the Kingdom, but only a few will believe and follow Him. Thus, God will not bring them into the banquet of the Kingdom.

In a way we can understand this of all people also. God has made His invitation open to anyone (John 3:16), but only a few will believe and receive this gift (Matthew 7:13 – 14).

Have you believed and received? Today will be a great day to settle it.

Prayer: Jesus, I bring my heart to You to cleanse and claim as Your own. Amen.

Bible Gateway Scripture

Dr. Thomas & Linda Marshall

Doc is a Minister living in Laurinburg, NC. He has been a Senior Pastor, educator, and writer. He is presently an Editor for Christian Publishing House in Ohio, and an Adjunct Professor in the School of Education at Liberty University Online.

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Order your copy of Basics of Biblical Criticism: Helpful or Harmful [Second Edition] with a chapter (Chapter 5: Rhetorical Criticism) by Dr. Thomas F. Marshall from Christian Publishing House. http://www.christianpublishers.org/apps/webstore/products/show/5346435Also available through from your local book distributor, Amazon.com, Walmart.com, Barnes and Noble, and other on-line websites.